Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed a $227 billion spending plan that includes a major initiative to expand housing in New York by 800,000 units over the next decade. While the governor has been promoting the plan during her travels across the state, Republicans have expressed opposition to the measures, calling them an overreach in suburban communities. On the other hand, some Democrats believe that the plan does not go far enough and want to see further action taken to address the ongoing housing crisis in the state.
Hochul’s proposals include money for infrastructure, as well as a fast-track plan for qualified projects at the state level over local objections to drive down skyrocketing costs and boost supply. The governor has sought to highlight the support the proposal has received from local officials in New York, citing officials in the Syracuse area on Tuesday.
Despite local support, some Republican lawmakers have expressed concerns over the loss of local control.
Meanwhile, some Democratic lawmakers want the housing plan in the budget to go further, including providing assistance for people struggling to pay their rent. Lawmakers have proposed millions of dollars in emergency rental assistance to help stave off evictions. Additionally, Assemblyman Harvey Epstein is backing a measure known as Good Cause Eviction, which would make it harder for landlords to raise rents or evict tenants without cause.
The governor’s housing initiative is receiving a mixed response at the state Capitol, with some lawmakers calling for more support for renters and others concerned about the loss of local control. However, Hochul remains hopeful that her proposal will drive down costs and boost housing supply in New York.
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